Beach Bliss on a Budget: Affordable U.S. Beach Destinations to Soak Up the Sun!

Hey sun-seekers and budget travelers! 🌞🏖️ Looking for a slice of paradise without breaking the bank? You’re in luck! We’ve rounded up some of the most affordable beach destinations in the U.S. where you can enjoy sun, sand, and sea without burning a hole in your wallet. Plus, with Skyscanner, finding cheap flights and great deals on accommodations has never been easier. Let’s dive in!

TRAVEL HACKS

Don Mendoza

8/25/20244 min read

cheap places to travel in u.s. with beaches

1. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Why Go: Known for its long sandy shores and family-friendly attractions, Myrtle Beach offers affordable fun for everyone.
Airfare: Flights cost around $200–$400 round-trip. Use Skyscanner to snag the best deals.
Best Accommodations: Stay at budget-friendly spots like Holiday Sands South ($60–$100/night) or check out other options with Skyscanner.
Where to Eat: Grab a bite at Sea Captain's House—meals range from $15–$25.

2. Pensacola Beach, Florida

Why Go: With its beautiful white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, Pensacola Beach is a gem on the Gulf Coast.
Airfare: Expect to pay about $250–$450 round-trip. Skyscanner can help you find the best rates.
Best Accommodations: Check out budget-friendly hotels like Beach Club Resort ($80–$120/night) or browse other options via Skyscanner.
Where to Eat: Enjoy fresh seafood at The Fish House—meals cost around $20–$30.

3. Galveston, Texas

Why Go: Galveston offers a laid-back vibe with great beaches and historic charm without a hefty price tag.
Airfare: Flights to Galveston are about $200–$400 round-trip. Use Skyscanner to find the best deals.
Best Accommodations: Stay at budget spots like Quality Inn & Suites Beachfront ($70–$110/night) or find more options with Skyscanner.
Where to Eat: Try Gaido's Seafood Restaurant—meals cost between $20–$40.

4. Virginia Beach, Virginia

Why Go: Virginia Beach offers a fun boardwalk, beautiful beaches, and affordable accommodations.
Airfare: Flights cost around $200–$400 round-trip. Check Skyscanner for the best flight deals.
Best Accommodations: Book a room at La Quinta Inn & Suites ($80–$120/night) or explore other choices with Skyscanner.
Where to Eat: Enjoy delicious seafood at Mahi Mah’s—meals range from $15–$25.

5. Daytona Beach, Florida

Why Go: Famous for its wide, sandy shores and classic American beach experience, Daytona Beach is perfect for a budget-friendly getaway.
Airfare: Expect to pay around $250–$450 round-trip. Use Skyscanner to score great flight deals.
Best Accommodations: Stay at budget hotels like Days Inn by Wyndham ($70–$110/night) or find more options with Skyscanner.
Where to Eat: Check out Ocean Deck Restaurant & Beach Club—meals cost about $15–$30.

6. Biloxi, Mississippi

Why Go: Biloxi combines beautiful Gulf Coast beaches with a variety of affordable entertainment options.
Airfare: Flights are about $250–$450 round-trip. Use Skyscanner to find the best prices.
Best Accommodations: Check out Margaritaville Resort Biloxi ($100–$150/night) or browse other budget options with Skyscanner.
Where to Eat: Enjoy Southern cuisine at The Reef—meals cost around $15–$25.

7. Ocean City, Maryland

Why Go: Ocean City is a classic East Coast beach destination with a vibrant boardwalk and affordable fun.
Airfare: Flights to Ocean City cost about $200–$400 round-trip. Use Skyscanner to find the best deals.
Best Accommodations: Stay at budget-friendly spots like Comfort Inn Boardwalk ($80–$120/night) or find more options with Skyscanner.
Where to Eat: Try Thrasher's French Fries—perfect for a budget-friendly bite.

8. Santa Cruz, California

Why Go: With its eclectic vibe and beautiful coastline, Santa Cruz offers a relaxed beach experience without high prices.
Airfare: Flights to Santa Cruz cost around $300–$500 round-trip. Use Skyscanner to find the best rates.
Best Accommodations: Stay at budget spots like Ocean Pacific Lodge ($80–$130/night) or find other options with Skyscanner.
Where to Eat: Enjoy a meal at The Buttery—meals range from $10–$20.

9. South Padre Island, Texas

Why Go: South Padre Island offers a fun, laid-back beach experience with affordable prices.
Airfare: Expect to pay about $250–$450 round-trip. Skyscanner helps you find the best flight deals.
Best Accommodations: Check out budget-friendly options like Padre South Hotel ($70–$110/night) or browse with Skyscanner.
Where to Eat: Grab a bite at Sea Ranch Restaurant—meals cost around $15–$25.

10. Newport, Rhode Island

Why Go: Newport boasts beautiful coastal scenery and a charming atmosphere without breaking the bank.
Airfare: Flights to Newport cost around $200–$400 round-trip. Check Skyscanner for the best deals.
Best Accommodations: Stay at budget spots like The Wayfinder Hotel ($80–$120/night) or find more options with Skyscanner.
Where to Eat: Enjoy seafood at The Mooring—meals range from $20–$30.

11. Charleston, South Carolina

Why Go: Charleston offers beautiful beaches, historic charm, and affordable accommodations.
Airfare: Flights are about $200–$400 round-trip. Use Skyscanner to find the best prices.
Best Accommodations: Book a room at The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor ($100–$150/night) or find other budget options with Skyscanner.
Where to Eat: Try Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar—meals cost about $20–$30.

12. Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Why Go: Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, Fort Lauderdale offers affordable fun.
Airfare: Flights to Fort Lauderdale cost around $200–$400 round-trip. Check Skyscanner for the best flight deals.
Best Accommodations: Stay at budget-friendly spots like Galt Villas Inn ($80–$120/night) or find more options with Skyscanner.
Where to Eat: Enjoy a meal at Coconuts—meals cost about $15–$25.

13. Destin, Florida

Why Go: Destin is famous for its emerald green waters and family-friendly atmosphere.
Airfare: Flights to Destin are about $250–$450 round-trip. Use Skyscanner to find the best rates.
Best Accommodations: Check out The Henderson ($100–$150/night) or browse other budget-friendly options with Skyscanner.
Where to Eat: Enjoy seafood at The Back Porch—meals cost around $20–$30.

14. Clearwater Beach, Florida

Why Go: Clearwater Beach offers pristine sands and warm waters without a high price tag.
Airfare: Flights to Clearwater Beach are around $200–$400 round-trip. Use Skyscanner for the best flight deals.
Best Accommodations: Stay at budget-friendly hotels like Coconut Cove All Suite Hotel ($70–$120/night) or find more options with Skyscanner.
Where to Eat: Try Frenchy's Rockaway Grill—meals cost about $15–$25.

15. Laguna Beach, California

Why Go: Laguna Beach offers a charming coastal experience with beautiful beaches and a laid-back vibe. It’s perfect for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and artistic flair.
Airfare: Flights to Laguna Beach cost around $300–$500 round-trip. Use Skyscanner to find the best deals on flights and accommodations.
Best Accommodations: Check out budget-friendly options like Laguna Beach House ($90–$140/night) or find more affordable places through Skyscanner.
Where to Eat: Enjoy a meal at The Rooftop Lounge—meals range from $20–$30.